West Ham sources have remained tight-lipped about the exact figure they offered Aston Villa for Jhon Duran during the summer transfer window, though they confirm they made a strong effort despite limited financial resources. Initial reports suggested that West Ham’s £35 million bid fell £5 million short of Villa’s asking price. However, last week, Fabrizio Romano, who is speculated to have connections with Tim Steidten, claimed the bid was actually £43 million plus a sell-on clause, which was still rejected.
Claret & Hugh contacted our top source within the club to ask for the true details, but all we were told was, “we bid hard.”
Meanwhile, Aston Villa insiders maintain that their valuation of Duran was £60 million, including add-ons, along with a sell-on clause and a buy-back option. With so many varying stories, it’s difficult to know what to believe; however, it is understandable that West Ham would have rejected any deal that included a buy-back clause.
The 20-year-old striker, who sparked speculation by posting a video over the summer featuring crossed Hammers, has since netted 6 goals in 9 appearances this season, including the match-winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.